Fatshimétrie’s first honorary doctorate was awarded this year to Mia Le Roux, Miss South Africa 2021. Her transcendent career in the beauty world has firmly anchored her in popular admiration, but her unexpected withdrawal from the Miss Universe pageant has sparked genuine astonishment.
Citing health concerns, Mia Le Roux made the difficult decision to withdraw from the competition, dashing South Africa’s hopes of being represented at the 73rd edition of the pageant currently taking place in Mexico.
The 28-year-old captured the Miss South Africa title last August, making history by becoming the first deaf contestant to be crowned in the pageant’s 66-year history. Diagnosed with profound hearing loss at the age of one, Mia Le Roux overcame hearing barriers with the support of an implant.
Her abrupt withdrawal from the international pageant has moved her fans, acknowledging South Africa’s unwavering support throughout her Miss Universe journey. While she has not disclosed the exact nature of her health issue, respecting her decision underscores the priority given to her well-being.
South Africa, famous for its past success at the Miss Universe pageant, including three crowns won in 1978, 2017 and 2019, sees its path to the current accolade come to an end with Mia Le Roux’s retirement.
Mia Le Roux’s image of strength of character and unwavering determination despite her disability will remain etched in the history of the beauty pageant. Her exceptional journey inspires hope and perseverance, proving that beauty lies first and foremost in the power of the mind.